TORONTO, 29 September — Canada’s two influential parliamentarians have urged the G-8 countries to help Pakistan in its hour of need. Paul Bonwick and Jim Karygiannis, both members of the House of Commons from Ontario Province, commended President Gen. Musharraf’s quick decision to support the United States in its war against international terrorism.
“Musharraf’s resolve to fight terrorism has enhanced the reputation of Pakistan in the eyes of the international community,” they said.
The ruling party’s MPs were speaking at a meeting of Pakistani Canadians held here Thursday night at a local hotel to show solidarity with the government of Gen. Musharraf. The meeting was organized by Ashfaq Hussain of Pakistan-Canada Amity Forum to lend support to Islamabad in this hour of crisis.
Paul Bonwick in his speech said Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien and other world leaders have spoken in the strongest possible terms against those who have inflicted acts of terrorism.
They, he said, have also clearly stated the need for an international response encouraging countries around the world to assist in this fight against terrorism.
“One of the countries that has risen to this challenge is Pakistan,” he said.
Bonwick added: “I call on Canadian government to work with the other G-8 countries to provide the necessary support Pakistan requires in its hour of need.
Jim Karygiannis, who is considered a great friend of Pakistan, said Gen. Musharraf’s effort to help crush terrorists have been greatly appreciated in the West.
Karamat Ghauri, former Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkey and Kuwait; Raheel Raza, a free lance journalist; retired Col. Anwar Ahmed and barrister Arif Raza also addressed the gathering.
Ghauri said Pakistan took a just and firm stand when Afghanistan was invaded by the former Soviet Union in 1979 and again Islamabad made another historic decision to support US efforts in combating terrorism.
